Mohamed Aden

For FBA sellers, the Buy Box is the Holy Grail. It is their golden ticket to securing their position and dominating the cutthroat marketplace. But what if you could eliminate the competition and own a Buy Box yourself? This isn’t just a dream; it’s achievable through Amazon FBA Private Label.

If you’re tired of sharing the Buy Box and watching your profits dilute, read on. Learn how selling private label products on Amazon works and why it could be the competitive edge your business needs.

What Is the Buy Box on Amazon?

If one thing can help you in the Amazon FBA, it’s winning the Buy Box. But what precisely is it?

The Buy Box refers to a specific section on the right-hand side of a product's information page. It's where customers can click the "Add to Cart" or "Buy Now" buttons to finalize their purchase. It may seem like a simple feature, but its influence on your sales performance is monumental. 

When you own this space, you become the default choice for shoppers who don't have a particular seller in mind. It’s a long-term asset that can contribute to your brand's growth and sustainability on Amazon.

Unfortunately, you’re not the only one who aims for this coveted spot. Every seller on the platform does, from greenhorns to seasoned veterans. So, how can you outshine the FBA race? The answer: sell private label products. 

What Is Amazon FBA Private Label?

Merging FBA with private labeling establishes an Amazon FBA private label business model. This enables brand creation and production control (development, branding, etc.) while working closely with manufacturers and suppliers.

How Private Labeling Contributes To an Uncontested Buy Box

Private labeling is more than a sales channel. Here, you create a brand people trust and return to. The benefits are numerous, and they also go well beyond simple buy-and-sell dynamics. There is no reason not to maximize this lucrative model. 

Given the significance of Buy Box, private labeling offers unique advantages that are hard to ignore. Here’s how.

Brand Exclusivity	With private labeling, you're the sole seller of your branded product. That means no competition; winning and protecting that prime spot will be easier.
Brand Control	You get to design the packaging, choose the product features, and even control the narrative around your brand.
Enhanced Brand Content	You’re under the Amazon Brand Registry program, which has enhanced brand content features. Better listings can lead to higher conversion rates—another factor in securing the Buy Box.
Pricing Autonomy	You can adjust the private label product’s price based on market factors without being undercut by other sellers.
Good Seller Metrics	Private label products often have fewer customer complaints and returns, leading to better seller metrics and a higher chance of winning the Buy Box.

Selling your own private label product does more than just put you in a strong position to win the Buy Box. It removes direct competition for the sought-after spot. You’re also setting the standard in your product category.

How To Start a Private Label on Amazon

The private label business model presents Amazon FBA sellers with a unique blend of control and scalability. Assuming you’ve decided to follow the private label selling venture, how do you kickstart it?

Here's a quick 4-step guide below so you don't miss any crucial process details.

1. Conduct Market Research

With market research, you can identify high-demand Amazon private label products with low competition. But how will you gain from it?

• Use Amazon Best-Seller Ranks to know what products are currently popular. Complement the data by reading customer reviews on related products. From there, you can get insights into consumer needs and market gaps.

• Use MerchantWords or Helium 10. With keyword research, you can find high-volume, low-competition keywords online customers use to search for products. 

Combining these research methods allows you to zero in on niche markets where your product can truly thrive.

2. Source Products

Build your Amazon private label brand through the right suppliers. Alibaba and Global Sources are great starting points for finding reliable manufacturers. 

Always ask for product samples and check their quality before placing large orders. Don’t forget to talk to the suppliers about your packaging needs, including your brand logo and any necessary customizations.

By thoroughly selecting and communicating with suppliers, you can have a product that meets quality expectations and embodies the brand's vision and values.

3. Create Your Brand Identity

A strong brand persona and loyal client base are important for long-term success. This is where a unique brand logo and name can help you build brand identity and gain credibility among consumers.

In this case, collaborating with a skilled graphic designer can be a strategic move. They can transform your brand’s vision into a polished logo with cohesive branding elements. It’s not only about elevating your brand’s aesthetic but also about cultivating connections with the viewers.

3. Maintain Profitability Through Effective Pricing Strategies

Implement strategic pricing for your own private label products. Set your product's price slightly lower than your competitors' average sales price initially to capture market share. Then, gradually raise the price as you gain more visibility.

4. Enhance Your Product Pages

Optimize your pages with relevant keywords, insightful descriptions, and high-quality media. Resolve any customer service issues that may arise, as positive customer feedback can affect your product rankings and brand recognition.

How To Protect Your Branded Product (To Avoid Losing the Buy Box)

Getting the Amazon Buy Box is a big win, but keeping that position requires ongoing vigilance. As a private label seller, how can you ensure your brand stays in that prime spot without competition?

• Maintain High Seller Ratings: Amazon considers seller performance when allocating the Buy Box. It’s your job to provide excellent online service to maintain high ratings.

• Inventory Management: Low stocks can result in losing the Buy Box. Use inventory management tools to avoid insufficient stocks.

• Monitor Competitors: Keep an eye on other sellers selling similar or counterfeit products. Report any violations to Amazon immediately.

• Legal Measures: For added protection, trademark your brand and products. This gives you legal grounds to act against counterfeiters.

• Quality Product: Deliver high-quality products to avoid returns and negative reviews, which can impact your Buy Box eligibility.

Examples of Successful Private Labels

“Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow.” — Anthony J. D’Angelo

This quote couldn’t be more relevant in the context of FBA private label selling. The best way to grow and succeed in this marketplace is to learn from those who have already made their mark.

What can we glean from successful private labels? What strategies have they employed?

Owning Seasonal Products

Take, for example, a private label specializing in upscale Valentine's Day gifts. With a seasonal niche, you can tap into a market that appreciates premium packaging, high-quality items, and unique gift choices. In turn, you can handle a specific market segment during peak seasons.

Focusing on a Customer-Centric Approach

Another hallmark of a successful private label is a strong focus on customer feedback. By listening to what customers say and improving products accordingly, they establish a platform for positive reviews and word-of-mouth referrals.

Sustainability Focus

Brands that emphasize eco-friendly or sustainable practices attract a dedicated following. Such responsibility can be a unique selling proposition that leaves a lasting imprint.

Studying these examples and incorporating strategies can help you build a more resilient and profitable private label business.

Ways to Grow Your Amazon FBA Private Label Business

Identifying a niche and fulfilling a need is only half the job; consistently applying optimization strategies and keeping up with market trends will guarantee your private label's ongoing growth.

Check out these tips below:

• Expand Product Line: Once you have a successful product, introduce complementary goods or variations to capture a larger market share.

• Utilize Social Media Platforms: Engage with online users and create brand advocates.

• Analyze and Adapt: Use Amazon analytics tools to track sales, returns, and customer behavior. This data can help you decide pricing, inventory, and marketing strategies.

• Leverage Amazon Ads: Running sponsored product ads can instantly show your brand to the target audience and drive sales. It’s another competitive benefit that could lead to winning the much-desired uncontested Buy Box.

• Offer Promotions: Periodic discounts, bundled deals, or loyalty programs can hook new customers and retain existing ones.

• Build Strong Supplier Relationships: A good relationship with your suppliers can result in better prices and quicker resolution of any issues.

Learn Private Labeling the Easy Way With Seller Interactive

Challenges are inevitable in all kinds of businesses, including private labels. One primary hurdle is the expenses. Bulk orders, shipping costs, packaging, labeling—each requires substantial capital to get started and a financial cushion to sustain the business.

Quality and safety are also at risk. Although you’re not the manufacturer, the end customer associates the product quality directly with your brand. If they receive a subpar product, your brand reputation takes the hit, not the manufacturer's.

Building an Amazon private label business doesn’t happen overnight. From understanding market dynamics to optimizing listings, every step demands meticulous attention. But don’t let anything stop you from pursuing this profitable landscape. Seller Interactive is here to help!

We don't simply help businesses survive the competition; we equip them to dominate it. Enhanced brand content? Brand protection? Our full account management experts can help you explore and excel in this environment.
Survival isn't our goal; your success is. Book a call now!

While Amazon lifts the burden of order fulfillment off third-party sellers’ shoulders through FBA, sellers are still responsible for packing and sending their items to the platform’s warehouses. For this reason, any FBA seller must learn about their packaging requirements, particularly the Amazon FBA box size limit.

How would the Amazon FBA packaging requirements affect your operations, and how can you ensure compliance with their guidelines? Let’s unbox these common FBA shipping concerns and discover ways to optimize your FBA packaging.

What is The Amazon FBA Box Size Limit?

Amazon requires sellers to secure their standard-sized products in boxes measuring at least 6 x 4 x 1 inches or at most 25 inches on any side. 

FBA sellers are free to place as many items in their shipping box as long as the package doesn’t exceed the limits set by the platform. This way, they can avoid mishaps during shipping and inventory (e.g., placing a heavy package on top of a box too big for your items may inevitably crush it).

Regarding oversized units (items measuring more than 25 inches), Amazon may only accept boxes exceeding 2 inches of the standard size limit.

Amazon is also strict about the box weight. Boxes to be shipped to the fulfillment centers must weigh at least 1 pound and not more than 50 pounds. 

Boxes weighing more than the standard weight limit may result in delays, shipping complications, returns, or blocking of future shipments. 

Packaging Guidelines for FBA Shipments

Besides the shipping box dimensions and weight, sellers are encouraged to follow the following guidelines listed below for Amazon FBA shipments:

• Boxes should have the following labels:
  • A single address label with accurate and clear delivery information on the outer box
  • A unique FBA box ID label
  • For pallets: four FBA pallet ID labels, one on each side
• Items within must be wrapped individually and have at least 2 inches of cushioning between each other and the box.
• Avoid placing inventory from various shipments in the same box. Items within the box must have the same unique shipment ID provided on the Shipment summary page.
• Cross out any existing barcodes on your items with a black marker or tape.
• Use the necessary packaging material for each box. Do not use strings, straps, packing peanuts, shredded paper, styrofoam, or overwrap.
• Avoid using pallet-sized boxes and point-of-sale containers.
• Avoid bundling multiple boxes together.

Amazon advises sellers to gently shake their packaged boxes after packing to ensure their contents do not move during transportation.

To help sellers visualize the packing process, Amazon provides the following tutorial on FBA packaging.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KAqmMK5QK2Y

Before shipping boxes, sellers must also provide accurate box content information to the platform. Doing so informs the designated fulfillment center about the nature of your inventory, enabling them to manage your inventory better and ultimately speed up the fulfillment process. 

The inability to present accurate information may lead to additional fees or the blocking of future shipments. 

Why Is It Important to Keep It Within the Box Limit?

Some sellers may think the packaging requirements are ridiculous and may feel discouraged from adhering to them. They may even hesitate to send their FBA shipments altogether. 

But as always, there are valid reasons behind Amazon’s strict packaging limits. Non-adherence to these guidelines affects 

• inventory and storage, 
• shipping, and 
• fees associated with the fulfillment method. 

To help you understand further, let’s discuss these reasons in detail.

Inventory and Storage

Compliance with these packaging guidelines directly affects your inventory and storage in Amazon’s FBA warehouses.

According to Amazon, one fulfillment center measures approximately 800,000 square feet and houses millions of products of every size and type daily. With that much space, sellers may think a box going a little over the standard size or weight limit won’t affect FBA operations.

However, even the tiniest tweaks can significantly impact inventory and storage. Despite the generous space FBA warehouses offer, Amazon still strategically plans the logistics and allocation of each shipment down to the tee. 

Hence, one oversized or overweight box can instantly ruin these fulfillment centers' entire inventory and storage system. 

A box exceeding the recommended size limit may disrupt the stacking and organization of items, leading to inefficiencies in retrieval and order processing. An overweight box can strain handling equipment and compromise the safety of every box shipped to these centers.

Remember: Your FBA shipment isn’t the only package arriving at these warehouses. Not only will your non-adherence lead to possible disruptions in your operations, but it can also negatively impact the operations of other FBA sellers. 

Adhering to the size and weight limits ensures that your and other FBA sellers’ products are efficiently packed and stored in Amazon's fulfillment centers. 

Shipping

Boxes exceeding the recommended size limits may slow or disrupt shipment, reducing shipping efficiency.

Larger and heavier packages may need special handling and equipment, leading to slower processing and longer transit times. These instances can result in shipment delays to these warehouses, ultimately affecting your fulfillment operations. Oversized and overweight shipments are more susceptible to damage during transit because of their size and weight. Improperly packed items in these boxes might shift during shipment, leading to items breaking and other damage.

Most importantly, non-compliance with such guidelines may result in higher return rates. As mentioned, Amazon strictly enforces these regulations for every FBA shipment, and failure to adhere to these conditions may result in returns or suspension of future shipments.

Cost

Finally, non-adherence may affect your operations and business with additional fees. Additional charges may apply for these boxes' shipping, handling, and inventory, leading to increased expenses and lower profit margins.

Additional shipping fees for dimensional weight and package volume may be charged for oversized and overweight packages. Since these boxes require special handling during transit and storage, sellers may also have to pay higher handling costs.

These packages are also more susceptible to damages, and such mishaps can lead to higher return risks and more expenses. 

Ultimately, Amazon’s box guidelines ensure secure delivery and processing at their designated fulfillment center. Compliance with these regulations only leads to a speedier and more efficient fulfillment process.

Source: Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels.com

4 Ways to Optimize Your Amazon FBA Package

We’ve thoroughly delved into the specifics of Amazon’s packaging regulations and highlighted the importance of compliance. Now, it’s time to learn how FBA sellers like yourself can guarantee the safety of your packages when they reach Amazon’s warehouses.

Here are four ways to optimize your Amazon FBA shipments.

Use Appropriate Packing Materials.

Amazon recommends packaging materials for FBA shipments, including durable cardboard boxes, strong packaging tape, bubble wrap, heavy-weight kraft paper, foam sheeting, and air pillows. 

Using the right packing materials will ensure the safety and security of your box’s contents, preventing damage to your items and helping you avoid returns and additional costs.

Maximize Space Utilization.

Consider maximizing the space inside the boxes to ship as many items as possible without affecting efficiency and wasting resources. Proper and smart item arrangement within the box is just as crucial as packing your shipment.

Moreover, sellers must minimize the space in their FBA package to avoid excess movement during transit. You can do so by

• bubble wrapping each product,
• placing air pillows between each item,
• adding foam sheeting to remove excess space and
• using nesting containers.

Label Boxes Clearly and Correctly.

Ensure that all necessary labels and shipping information are clear, legible, and securely affixed to the outside of the package. Proper labeling helps prevent misrouting and delays in your operations.

Test Durability and Secureness.

Similar to how a seller would test their product to ensure its quality, conducting tests on the FBA shipment box will inform sellers whether or not their package can withstand the common conditions that packages encounter during transit. 

You can perform the following to ensure your box’s durability:

• Drop tests 
• Compression tests
• Puncture resistance tests
• Vibration tests.

Let the Experts from Seller Interactive Handle Your Order Fulfillment

While it may seem like a minuscule matter in the grand scheme of Amazon FBA fulfillment, adhering to the box size limits that the platform has set can significantly affect your and other sellers’ operations. 

Hopefully, these optimization tips can make compliance with these numerous and strict packaging regulations easier. If not, consider hiring professionals who can handle these countless guidelines.

Let the pros from Seller Interactive manage your Amazon Seller account and FBA operations. Our Amazon experts offer account management assistance to lift the burden of FBA fulfillment off your shoulders. Book a call today and watch your Amazon business flourish and thrive with Seller Interactive.

Are you a business owner looking to diversify your revenue streams? You’ve probably heard about earning significant profits through retail arbitrage on Amazon. It relies on keen observation, research, and understanding consumer trends and market demands.

But is it the right choice for you? In this blog post, we’ll break down this business model and help you determine if it’s the best choice for your Amazon business. 

What is Retail Arbitrage?

Retail arbitrage is a business model where you identify products at a competitive price in your local retail store or through online retailers’ clearance sales. Once you've purchased these products, you may resell them on Amazon for a greater price. 

Retail arbitrage has grown popular, particularly with Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), which allows sellers to keep their products in Amazon's warehouses while Amazon handles shipment and customer care. Amazon FBA has made the process of reselling products more accessible and streamlined. 

Is Amazon OK with Retail Arbitrage?

If you’re wondering, “Is retail arbitrage legal?” Yes, and it is allowed on Amazon. There’s no violation of Amazon’s policies when you buy discounted products in new condition and resell them at a higher price. 

Retail Arbitrage vs. Other Amazon Business Models

How does online arbitrage differ from other business models on Amazon? Check out the following: 

1. Wholesaling

Wholesaling involves buying items in bulk at a reduced price from manufacturers or suppliers and then reselling them to retailers or other businesses. This method requires more initial investment and storage space than retail arbitrage, but it yields more significant profit margins.

2. Dropshipping

In dropshipping, you sell products online without physically handling the inventory. Instead, you partner with a supplier who ships the products directly to the customer when an order is placed. This business model has lower upfront costs but smaller profit margins than retail arbitrage or wholesaling.

3. Private Label

Private labeling involves purchasing items from a manufacturer and branding and packaging them under your own brand. This enables you to develop a unique product offering and brand identity. It typically requires more initial investment and effort than retail arbitrage or dropshipping but has the potential for higher profit margins and brand loyalty.

Benefits of Retail Arbitrage

Now that you know how retail arbitrage compares to other business models, let’s determine if it’s worth the shot. Here are the advantages of using this Amazon business model: 

1. Low Initial Investment

One of the primary benefits of retail arbitrage is the modest initial investment. Amazon retail arbitrage sellers can start with a small budget by purchasing clearance or discounted items and reselling them. You won’t need to manage bulk inventory or spend much on startup costs to start selling. 

2. Easy to Set Up

Setting up a retail arbitrage business is simple. You only need to find discounted products, purchase them at a low price, and then list them on online marketplaces like Amazon. You don’t need expert knowledge or experience in ecommerce to get started with retail arbitrage.

3. Fast Profits

Retail arbitrage can lead to fast profits since you're capitalizing on existing product demand. 

Online arbitrage capitalizes on high-demand products, which attracts more potential buyers. This enables you to sell your inventory and generate revenue quickly. 

4. Minimal Branding Effort

When running a retail arbitrage business you're dealing with products from established brands. This implies you won't have to spend much time or money on branding. Instead, you can focus on sourcing profitable products and selling them on Amazon, where customers trust the brands.

✅Benefits	❎Drawbacks
Low Initial Investment	Inconsistent Product Availability
Easy to Set Up	Price Fluctuations
Fast Profits	Time-Intensive Research
Minimal Branding Effort	Potential Negative Reviews

Drawbacks of Retail Arbitrage

Retail arbitrage is easy to set up and offers high profit potential. However, it’s also one reason why competition could be intense. Here are more challenges you’ll encounter: 

1. Inconsistent Product Availability

A main challenge you may face in retail arbitrage is the inconsistency of product availability. Stores often change what they have in stock, which makes it hard for you to find and sell popular items consistently.

2. Price Fluctuations

Another drawback of retail arbitrage is the constant price fluctuations in the market. Your purchase price may be lower than the resale price at the time of sourcing, but if market conditions change or a sudden price drop occurs, you might be left with unsold inventory or even losses. 

3. Time-Intensive Research

To identify the most profitable products for retail arbitrage, you must dedicate more time to researching the market, tracking price and demand trends, and sourcing discounted products. 

This might be challenging because it requires keeping up with the ever-changing market conditions. Time investment might outweigh the potential rewards, which makes it a less attractive option for some.

4. Potential Negative Reviews

Customers who purchase your products may have expectations based on their experience with the same product purchased directly from the source. If there are differences in quality, packaging, or delivery times, customers might leave negative reviews on your seller profile. 

Poor reviews can impact your reputation on Amazon and ultimately affect your ability to generate sales.

How to Find Profitable Products for Retail Arbitrage

Some business models offer huge profit margins, but the learning curve might be steeper. As a beginner, you can start with retail arbitrage to learn the ropes of selling on Amazon. In this business model, the retail arbitrage seller is responsible for researching different categories to find profitable items to sell. 

Here are a few things you can do to find items to sell: 

1. Source Products on Discount Stores

Look for discounted products in clearance aisles of stores like Walmart and Target. These stores often offer deep discounts on products to clear out inventory. Also, keep an eye out for clearance sales online, like Black Friday sales, where you can score even greater savings on items to resell.

2. Research Amazon’s Best Sellers

Another strategy to find profitable products is to research Amazon’s Best Sellers list. This list reveals items that are currently in high demand. To access, visit the “Amazon Best Sellers” page and pick the category you want. After you’ve chosen a category, a list of the top-selling products in that category will be displayed.

Focus on niche categories that align with your expertise or interests so that it will be easier to source these products. 

3. Scan the Barcode and Compare Prices

To determine a product's profit potential, compare its purchase price with the current selling price on platforms like Amazon. One efficient method is to use a barcode scanner app such as the Amazon Seller app to check the price difference. This way, you can quickly identify whether an item will bring you a profit.

4. Research Sales Rank

Understanding a product’s sales rank on Amazon is essential when looking for profitable retail arbitrage opportunities. A lower sales rank indicates that the item sells more frequently, which also means a higher probability of a quick and profitable sale. However, note that sales rank can fluctuate, so monitoring how it changes over time is important.

Tips for a Successful Retail Arbitrage Business

Success doesn’t stop with finding profitable products to sell. Here are some more tips to help you succeed in your retail arbitrage venture: 

1. Stay on Top of Trends

To succeed in retail arbitrage, you must stay informed about current market trends and popular products. When you see a trending product, research its pricing and availability to determine if it can be sourced at a discount. Keeping up with trends also allows you to figure out which items will sell quickly. 

2. Monitor Pricing Trends

Monitoring pricing trends lets you identify the best time to buy and sell products. Regularly compare product prices across different retailers and online marketplaces. Monitor competitors’ pricing strategies and use tools to track Amazon's price history.

3. Plan for Seasonality

Accounting for seasonal shifts in consumer demands is crucial in the retail arbitrage business. For example, popular items during the holiday season may not be in demand throughout the rest of the year. 

Understanding and preparing for these changes allows you to adapt your sourcing strategies to take advantage of seasonal opportunities. Stay flexible by increasing your inventory of in-demand products during peak seasons and decreasing stock when demand is low.

4. Diversify Your Product Portfolio

Diversifying your product portfolio can lower risks by spreading your investments across different items. Offering a wide range of products allows you to reach more potential customers and optimizes your chances of success. 

To diversify your portfolio, consider adding products from various categories and niches. This approach helps minimize the impact of changes in product demand or market volatility so you can have more stable profits for your Amazon business.

Start Your Online Arbitrage Business with Seller Interactive

In Amazon retail arbitrage, strategy is important to ensure consistent profitability. With the tips mentioned above and your dedication to finding profitable products, you can turn your own retail arbitrage business into a fulfilling journey in the Amazon marketplace.

If you need to focus on your business without leaving the essential groundwork, Seller Interactive is here to help. We offer comprehensive account management services, from setting up a professional seller account to handling prep and logistics. 
Book a call with us and discover how we can propel your business to new heights.

Your products are the lifeblood of your Amazon business. As long as your products remain in stock and the sales keep coming, your business will thrive. This makes inventory management a crucial part of your day-to-day operations. Choosing the right Amazon inventory management software can make a significant difference.

In this article, we will delve into the essential features to consider when selecting the best Amazon inventory management tools for your business. We will also provide a dedicated review of the top software available in the market and their unique features and benefits, to help you make an informed buying decision.

Key Features to Look for in Amazon Inventory Management Software

It's difficult to choose which software is best among the many offers out there, especially when they each have their own key features. By weighing these key features, you can effectively narrow down your options and select the right inventory management system for your Amazon business.

Inventory Tracking Capabilities

The right inventory management software for your business must offer robust inventory tracking capabilities. Look for a tool that allows you to monitor inventory levels across your entire sales channels, such as Seller Central and Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) inventory. 

This feature will help you 

• control stock levels, 
• prevent stockouts, 
• and maintain optimal inventory levels for better customer satisfaction.

Forecasting and Reports

A strong inventory management system should provide advanced forecasting and reporting features. This will help you predict future demand based on past sales data, allowing you to make informed decisions on inventory management. 

Accurate forecasting and reports can also help you plan for seasonal changes in sales volume, identify trends, and spot potential inventory imbalances to avoid excess or lost sales.

Automation and Efficiency

Another important characteristic to consider in inventory management software is the level of automation and efficiency it provides. Look for a solution with automation tools that can streamline your entire inventory management process and reduce the risk of human error. 

Some benefits of automation include: 

• automatic adjustments to inventory levels, 
• shipment tracking, 
• and the ability to generate shipping labels and customized packing slips.

Multi-Channel Capabilities

If you manage multiple sales channels beyond your Amazon business, you’ll need inventory management software that supports multi-channel integration. This inventory management feature allows you to manage your inventory efficiently across all of your online sales channels and other marketplaces. 

A centralized inventory management system enables you to control inventory levels and pricing in real-time, ensuring consistent customer experiences and competitive pricing in any sales channel.

Ease of Use and User Experience

The software should be user-friendly and intuitive, allowing you to quickly access and utilize key features for your business.

Look for a software that integrates seamlessly with your existing systems. A free demo and responsive support options can be great indicators of the overall user experience.

A Review of Top Amazon Inventory Management Tools

Remember that in order to get the best software, you must consider your business needs first and check which tool can assist you most efficiently. After knowing the characteristics to look for in the best software, here are some of the best tools you can choose from. 

What Software Does Amazon Use for Inventory Management?

Amazon uses its proprietary software called Amazon Seller Central for inventory management.

By logging in on your Seller Central account, you'll have access to an inventory management dashboard where you can do the following:

• Check stock quantities
• Keep an eye on aging stocks
• Know your sell through rate
• Do demand planning and forecasting
• Determine your shipment timelines
• Ensure optimum inventory levels

When you stay on top of your inventory, Amazon alerts you through an above 400 Inventory Performance Index (IPI). When you have that high score, the optimal inventory benefits follow.

On top of what Amazon offers, you can still choose from a variety of software solutions designed specifically for Amazon inventory management like the ones below:

Veeqo Inventory Management Tool

Amazon particularly endorses Veeqo, an inventory management software that provides end-to-end control of your multi-channel sales and FBA sales. Veeqo is a powerful tool with an all-in-one solution for streamlining your inventory operations.

Key Features

Selects the best rate for order label for orders coming from  multiple channelsShipping labels are unlimitedCan ship up to a hundred orders at onceEnacts the shipping rules you added in the system automatically for all ordersAllows unlimited usersEnjoy the features of Veeqo for freeShipping rates are discounted when you use UPS, USPS, DHL, and FedExHave the flexibility to use your own carrierMobile device accessibleAccessible data for analytics, forecasting, and advanced replenishment statistics

Considerations

Customer service representative response takes time if they reply at all.Bulk download of products is slow.Integrations with other sales channels are limited.Lengthy onboarding and implementation.

Sellbrite Software Solution

Sellbrite offers inventory control and listing management for Amazon sales and other sales channels. Sellbrite is a powerful tool designed for eCommerce brand managers, store owners, and marketing directors like you who rely on Amazon for online sales and business growth.

Key Features

Multi-channel supportMinimize overselling products because data is automatically updated when orders occurPrint postage for orders coming from different channels in a single softwareAllows bulk listing of products in different channelsManage listings quickly and easily because of templatesTracks inventory no matter which warehouse or location they areRealtime update of inventory under FBAUSPS, FedEx, and UPS label printing using the softwareDiscounted shipping rate for USPSAutomatic update of FBA order statusAllows multiple inventory location fulfillment

Considerations

Customer service representatives do not respond live, so it takes time to get a reply.No bulk shipping label creation

Inventory Management Systems by Brightpearl

Brightpearl is an inventory management solution tailored for Amazon, eCommerce businesses and online retailers, offering inventory management features, such as demand planning and automation tools.

Key Features

Multi-channel order fulfillment automation Multi-location inventory management Shipping management using different carriers Accounting of inventory Receive buying recommendations based on data and trends Quick and easy adding of platforms for multi-channel inventory management Offers forecasting and inventory planning Has product and sales performance analysis Manage dropshipping using the tool Implement First-In-First Out easily Real-time inventory update Fast processing of returns and refunds Accessible when offline, then updates are synced when back online Manage user access through owner permission Can add barcodes to inventory Allows delivery and returns reconciliation Offers financial reporting Has a Customer Relationship Management feature

Considerations

Slow customer service response Software integrates with limited marketplaces Product listing within Brightpearl is not possible Reporting and customization functions feature could be improved

Orderhive

Amazon sellers using Orderhive can enjoy seamless integration as it allows users to effortlessly sync and track inventory across multiple sales channels, boosting efficiency and reducing errors. Its comprehensive features make it a go-to solution for Amazon inventory management.

Key Features

User-friendly interface for easy navigation and usage Centralized inventory management system Real-time tracking of inventory levels to avoid stockouts and overstock Integration with multiple sales channels and marketplaces Automates order processing and fulfillment to save time and increase efficiency Provides insights and analytics to make data-driven inventory management decisions Powerful shipping management tools to streamline order fulfillment process Supports barcode scanning and SKU management for accurate inventory tracking Offers comprehensive warehouse management system for efficient inventory handling Includes order management features to track and manage customer orders Supports supply chain management to streamline the entire supply chain process Ability to generate and print shipping labels directly from the platform Provides tools and features for ecommerce present and future marketing plans

Considerations

Difficulties in getting timely and effective customer support Technical issues, such as system crashes, glitches, and bugs Complex interface and requires a significant amount of time and effort to learn and navigate efficiently Reporting capabilities are limited, lacking in customization options and comprehensive analytics

SoStocked

SoStocked is an essential tool to avoid poor inventory management. It offers functionalities for forecasting, tracking, and optimizing stock levels, ensuring sellers never run out of products or waste money on excess inventory.

Key Features

Calculates Amazon inventory for management Provides real-time inventory data and analytics, allowing sellers to easily track crucial inventory metrics You can predict FBA sales and prepare future customer demand and stay prepared by suggesting when to restock specific products. Provides comprehensive inventory reports, such as inventory value and aging reports, which help sellers optimize their inventory and reduce carrying and shipping costs Integrates seamlessly with Amazon Seller Central, ensuring a smooth and accurate sync of inventory data without the need for manual data entry Offers features like SKU override and SKU bundling, allowing sellers to manage their inventory more efficiently and save time on administrative tasks User-friendly interface and intuitive navigation, making it easy for sellers to use, even for those with limited technical expertise Offers multi-user access, allowing sellers to collaborate with their team or third-party service providers on inventory management tasks Provides 24/7 customer support, ensuring that sellers receive assistance whenever needed, increasing their confidence in using the software

Considerations

Limited integration with other eCommerce platforms, only works for Amazon No sales forecasting for other marketplaces

Partner With Seller Interactive

Investing in the right inventory management software can greatly improve your business operations. It can help you streamline your processes and give you more time to spend on scaling your business. The tools we mentioned above have well-regarded features and can cater to sellers with different needs.

If you need assistance in managing your Amazon inventory, handling the software you choose, or managing your Amazon business, Seller Interactive can help you. 

Book a call with us, so we can discuss our full account management service with you!

Amazon peak season is the time of the year when the demand for products on the platform significantly increases. This period usually begins in November and extends through the holiday season until the end of January. During these months, Amazon faces a surge in customer traffic, driven mainly by holiday shopping and promotional events.

To handle this massive influx of orders and ensure seamless delivery, Amazon sellers must take several strategic measures and understand the market dynamics during the period. Doing this will help them manage uncertainty while making sure costs are kept low, and profits high.

Let Seller Interactive share some helpful tips on getting your inventory and shipping in top shape in time for the upcoming surge buying season.

What Is Amazon's Peak Season?

It's the period when the ecommerce giant Amazon experiences its highest demand and sales. This typically occurs during the holiday season, when online buying surges as customers look for gifts and take advantage of deals offered on popular seasonal sales such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Inventory and Shipping Challenges During Peak Season

The holiday season, which includes events such as Black Friday and the whole Christmas period, poses a significant challenge for sellers in terms of balancing inventory stock levels and shipping inventory replenishments to Amazon warehouses promptly.

During the peak season, managing stock levels becomes more complex as sellers must juggle several factors, including the surge of demand for their products and varying shipping times during the holiday season.

Some carriers may experience delays or capacity constraints due to the high volume of shipping packages, impacting when and how your stock reaches Amazon warehouses. Under such a situation, there are two challenges that you must address as an Amazon seller.

Stock Shortage

A stock shortage occurs when the demand for products exceeds the supply, and the online seller fails to replenish their inventory on time to meet customers' needs. During the Amazon peak season, This high demand can strain Amazon's supply chain, making it difficult for you to replenish your inventory to fulfill the surge in orders.

In cases where a stock shortage is inevitable, Amazon offers certain features and tools to help sellers manage their inventory. For example, inventory alerts can notify sellers when their stock is running low, enabling them to take quick action to replenish their items.

Moreover, using Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) can further streamline the process, as Amazon's fulfillment centers handle storage, packaging, and shipping on behalf of sellers, thereby reducing the risk of stock shortages.

Stock Surplus

A stock surplus occurs when your product supply exceeds the demand. This imbalance can lead to unnecessary charges when maintaining inventory during Amazon's peak periods, as resources and warehouse space become constrained.

Inventory management becomes crucial in the interest of avoiding peak season surcharges and minimizing potential disruptions to the supply chain. There are various strategies that businesses can employ to navigate this challenge, which will be discussed in the section below.

How To Optimize Your Inventory During Peak Season

Efficient inventory management also requires constant planning, monitoring, and optimization. By closely monitoring your inventory and stock levels, you can meet the demands during peak season and avoid any problems in fulfillment and shipping.

Do the following best practices to make your inventory management lean and adapt to peak-period challenges.

Do Forecasting

Amazon sellers should prioritize examining their historical sales data, ranging from the past two to five years, as they prepare for the peak holiday season. By doing so, they can gain valuable insights into the volume of stock they need to meet the surge in customer demand during this time.

Accurate demand prediction enables sellers to make informed decisions when it comes to managing their Amazon account and securing sufficient inventory quantities to meet the expected influx of orders.

Effective forecasting is particularly important for maintaining smooth fulfillment during peak season. Delays or inaccuracies in order fulfillment can negatively impact customer satisfaction, which can potentially reduce sales. As part of the forecasting process, sellers should clearly understand their warehouse capacities and adjust their stock levels accordingly.

Make a Stock Order Plan

Amazon sellers must create a stock order plan, particularly in anticipation of the holiday season when order volumes tend to surge. When sellers do forecasting, they'll be able to schedule a stock order plan that aligns their supply with the expected demand at a given time, ensuring a higher rate of order fulfillment and ultimately increasing customer satisfaction.

To develop a successful stock order plan, you must do forecasting. Consider market trends, and factor in potential popular discount sales events such as Prime Day or Black Friday. This meticulous approach enables you to make informed decisions regarding the quantity of stock to order, minimizing stock shortage or surplus.

Optimize Your Product Listings

Amazon sellers must optimize their product listings during the holiday season to ensure a smooth flow of orders and fulfillment. By providing accurate images and descriptions that truthfully represent the physical stock they have on hand, sellers can avoid customer complaints and returns that could disrupt their inventory flow.

Every item in stock must go; a truthful product listing increases your chances of preventing potential returns. 

It’s important to learn the do’s and don’ts of optimized product listings. Doing so aligns your products with customers' expectations and minimizes the risk of dissatisfaction, leading to smoother order fulfillment and reduced strain on Amazon's resources.

Plan Your Marketing and Advertising Efforts

Proper planning of marketing and advertising efforts for Amazon sellers is crucial, especially during the holiday season. One method is to focus on pay-per-click advertising, making sure to optimize campaigns for peak season. This involves adjusting budgets, bids, and targeting to manage visibility and conversion rates.

Planning these efforts early and consistently monitoring performance is vital to prevent any unnecessary drive in customer demand that may result in fulfillment issues.

Planning and implementing marketing and advertising strategies to boost sales on low-demand products and keep high-demand products from overselling will allow Amazon business owners to manage customer satisfaction and maintain smooth inventory flow throughout the Amazon peak season.

How To Optimize Your Shipping During Peak Seasons

Apart from managing inventory levels, ecommerce businesses must learn how to optimize their shipping during the holiday season to ensure customers receive their orders on time.

Amazon FBA sellers must consider both inbound shipping when restocking in an Amazon warehouse and outbound shipping of their products to their buyers. To ensure a smooth shipping flow to your buyer's doorstep, consider the following practices.

Have a Backup Logistics Service

During the holiday season, Amazon sellers must ensure they are well-prepared for a surge in orders. To manage the inventory flow down to your buyers efficiently, you must have a backup logistics service to rely on.

This is helpful during inventory shortages or unexpected demand. A robust backup logistics service can send additional inventory to Amazon Fulfillment Centers or even directly to the customers. Implementing a backup logistics service is essential to maintain customer satisfaction and minimize potential delays.

Coordinate Shipping Schedules With Your Suppliers

During the holiday season, Amazon sellers should prioritize coordinating shipping schedules with their suppliers, as this will help keep up with the increased demand for products. Coordination ensures that inventory is well-stocked, facilitating the timely fulfillment of Amazon orders and maintaining customer satisfaction.

Amazon sellers must frequently inform their suppliers about their forecasted demand, be it monthly, weekly, or even daily.

This allows suppliers to plan accordingly and ensures that stock replenishment arrives promptly. By doing so, sellers and suppliers can minimize storage and shipping costs, making the shipping process more efficient.

Put Disclaimers on Your Product Listings

During the holiday season, the number of Amazon orders tends to surge, causing an increase in processing and shipping delays. To maintain customer satisfaction, Amazon sellers should add shipping delay disclaimers to their product listings.

These disclaimers inform buyers of potential peak season delays in a professional manner, allowing them to adjust their expectations and plan their purchases accordingly. Such disclaimers can help sellers adhere to Amazon's guidelines and prevent negative feedback from delayed deliveries.

By being transparent, sellers can demonstrate their commitment to excellent customer service. It is essential to mention realistic delivery dates in the disclaimers and avoid making exaggerated or false claims that can lead to unhappy customers and a damaged reputation.

Prep Your Customer Service

Preparing your customer service processes in advance is critical for addressing product delay and damage concerns. Hire seasonal associates to avoid long hours and mandatory extra time on your regular employees; this gives them the necessary mental health they need to provide excellent customer service. You can also incentivize associates with a pay raise to drive post-service selling.

A well-prepared team that handles a higher volume of inquiries will mitigate the impact of any potential issues and help maintain your store's reputation.

Tools like live chat and chatbots can also assist customers who need immediate help. They help reduce wait times and improve overall response rates. Implementing these measures will ensure that your customer support is proactive and equipped to handle the influx of Amazon orders during the busiest time of the year.

Minimize Amazon Peak Season Uncertainties and Maximize Profits

Peak periods are always a time of uncertainty. It's a period in our business year wherein demand can shoot up or crash down suddenly. You have to manage uncertainty to take full advantage of this exciting season in your Amazon business. That takes considerable planning and a knack for on-the-fly execution.To make it a breeze and reap the benefits of extraordinary revenue, partner up with Amazon marketplace professionals. Our team can help manage your advertising, inventory, and shipping to ensure you get the highest profit while reducing the uncertainty that drives cost and customer dissatisfaction. Book a call now.

Seasoned sellers like you have already utilized various ad types and campaigns on Amazon. To maintain and boost the growth of your business, reach out to a wider and more engaged audience—level up your game with the help of influencers. If you’re wondering how to find an influencer on Amazon, you’re in the right place!

From knowing how the Amazon Influencer Program works to leveraging social media platforms and third-party influencer marketplaces, this guide will provide actionable tips on finding influencers plus 8 brand-boosting strategies that will help you:

• Enhance your visibility, 
• attract more customers, 
• and ultimately skyrocket your sales on Amazon.

Tip #1: Research About Your Target Audience

To find an influencer on Amazon who can effectively boost your brand, you must first know your target audience. Only when you deeply understand your target audience can you identify the influencers that genuinely appeal to them.

Know your target audience.

Identify your target audience's essential demographics: age, gender, location, and income. This information aligns your brand with suitable influencers who share your target demographics, making your marketing efforts more effective.

Find what interests potential customers.

• What kind of content does your audience spend the most time on? 
• What are their hobbies or passions? 

Base your content to the answers you'll get. For instance, if your target audience is interested in fitness and wellness, partnering with a fitness influencer through the Amazon Influencer Program would greatly benefit your brand.

Identify the channels your target audience uses.

While Amazon is an excellent starting point, consider whether your audience engages with influencers on other platforms, like Instagram or YouTube. This way, you can target influencers with a presence on those platforms and their Amazon Influencer Storefronts.

Before we dive deeper into Amazon influencers, here’s a refresher about it:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vAvtXFbX0HA

Tip #2: Understand Influencer Types on the Amazon Influencer Program

Identifying the different types of influencers on Amazon can help you find ideal partners who can create compelling content and engage with your target audience. In this section, we will delve into the key categories of influencers that can boost your brand.

Brand ambassadors

Brand ambassadors are influencers who consistently promote brands and products. They deeply understand the brand's identity and values and can create genuine and authentic content to market the products.

To find a brand ambassador for your brand on Amazon, look for influencers who already match your products and niche or show genuine interest in your brand.

Content creators

Content creators produce original and engaging content in various formats, such as videos, blog posts, and product reviews. These influencers showcase Amazon products while sharing their opinions and feedback about the item.

Reviewers and bloggers

Reviewers and bloggers create in-depth reviews, comparisons, and round-ups of various products on Amazon. They have a strong following, and their opinions can make or break a sale.

To find relevant reviewers and bloggers, search for those specializing in your product category and analyze their reviews on Amazon storefronts. You can also browse their personal websites or social media profiles to know their niche expertise.

Social media influencers

Social media influencers have a significant presence on various platforms and can seamlessly incorporate your brand into their daily content. They often belong to the Amazon Associates Program, earning a commission from Amazon when their followers purchase products through their affiliate links.

To find social media influencers that align with your brand, search for those with a substantial following in your niche and check their engagement levels, relevance, and audience demographics on their chosen platform.

Tip #3: Explore Amazon Influencer Storefronts

The quickest way to find influencers on Amazon is through the #FoundItOnAmazon hashtag.

You can also find influencers on Amazon Live. These methods show influencers who create valuable content to promote various products. Assess their communication style, professionalism, and audience engagement. Note suitable influencers that align with your brand.

Then, visit their Amazon influencer storefront. Identify whether they fall into the category of micro-influencers or celebrities, and factor this into your decision-making. Remember—your choice should always hinge on your business scale and brand objectives.

Tip #4: Explore Social Media Platforms

Besides searching through Amazon Live and storefronts, you can also find influencers on popular social media platforms who use their accounts for social media marketing. To apply successfully for the Amazon Affiliate program, users must have an active Youtube, Facebook, or Instagram account.

Instagram

If your target audience is interested in images and videos, tap Amazon influencers on Instagram. Searching through hashtags is the most efficient way to find them. To ensure your partnership is worth it, work with an influencer with many engaged followers because they have proven informative, educational, and high-quality content.

TikTok

TikTok has become a go-to platform for viral content and short-form videos. As with Instagram, you can use platform-specific hashtags to find influencers relevant to your brand. As TikTok is known for its high-energy, entertaining, and high-engagement content, ensure the influencers you find align with your brand's tone and values.

YouTube

YouTube is an excellent platform for finding influencers who create long-form content, such as product reviews and tutorials. These videos can be particularly helpful for showcasing your products and demonstrating their value to potential customers.

To find suitable Amazon influencers on YouTube, you can search for videos featuring similar products and assess the influencer's content quality, relevance to your brand, and audience engagement.

Tip #5: Leverage Influencer Marketplaces and Directories

Another effective way to find Amazon influencers is by using influencer marketplaces and directories. Utilize platforms like Upfluence, Famebit, Levanta, and Fiverr to search for active influencers on Amazon with their own Amazon Storefront. 

While browsing through influencer directories, you can find suitable influencers by reviewing their profiles, checking their metrics, and looking at their previous collaborations. This information will help you determine if the influencer fits your brand and has experience promoting products on Amazon.

To get started with these platforms, create an account and explore available influencers. Use filters to narrow your search based on your target audience, niche, and specific Amazon programs such as Amazon Live or Amazon Influencer Storefronts.

Remember that while some directories charge a fee for their services, others offer free trials or basic access for a limited time. Take advantage of these offers to test the platform and find influencers that can help boost your presence on Amazon.

Tip #6: Connect With Influencers

Once you've identified potential Amazon Influencers relevant to your niche and brand, it's time to get them into your network.

Reach Out Through an Influencer's Amazon Storefront

Utilize their preferred communication channel, such as social media platforms or email, to express your interest in partnering with them to promote your products on their Amazon Influencer Storefront.

Craft an authentic message stating your clear intentions and information about your brand and products. Keep the tone conversational, respectful, and tailored specifically to their interests.

Begin Creating Content with Influencers

After successfully connecting with the influencer and explaining your goals, start creating engaging content together for their Amazon Storefront. Whether your collaboration involves sponsored posts, reviews, or featuring the products in their Amazon Live streams, ensure that it aligns with their audience's preferences and your brand image.

Keep communication lines open and discuss the specifics of your agreement. Provide the influencer with the necessary information and resources, such as product samples and promotional materials, to create content for their Amazon Storefront Influencer page. 

Tip #7: Check and Monitor Data and Statistics

Checking data and statistics begins when you are still looking for an influencer and once you’ve partnered with them. Here are the ways to ensure you base decisions on data.

Analyze Influencer Metrics and Authenticity

• Consider Amazon Influencer Storefronts' engagement, relevance to your brand, and the influencer's genuine interaction with their audience.
• Explore the Amazon Influencer Program and search for influencers based on their Amazon Storefront, product categories, and audience demographics.
• Analyze the influencer's Amazon Storefront to see how well it aligns with your brand and products.
• Check their Amazon Live and Amazon Associates Program performance to gain information about the effectiveness of their content.

Monitor and Measure Influencer Campaigns

• Continually monitor and measure the effectiveness of your influencer campaigns on Amazon.
• Track essential metrics, like Amazon Storefront traffic, conversions on promoted products, and engagement with influencer content.

Quick Review: How Do I Find and Follow Amazon Influencers?

Finding and following Amazon influencers is as easy as curating your own social media following. The best part is—you’ll also be training your algorithm to find influencers for you. To recap, you can find and follow Amazon influencers on the following: 

• Amazon #FoundItOnAmazon and Amazon Live
• Social Media and Content Generating Platforms
• Freelance Job Marketplaces
• Networking Events

How to Find an Influencer on Amazon: Partner With Seller Interactive

The long-term benefits of partnering with influencers can be invaluable to your brand. Building trust and credibility among your target audience, reaching a wider audience, and increasing brand awareness are just a few of the many advantages of influencer marketing.

To get the most out of utilizing Amazon Influencers, partner with us here at Seller Interactive. We offer Amazon full account management, which includes leveraging the power of the Amazon Influencer Program to help you boost your sales and grow your business.

Book a call with us now. Let's ensure that you are taking full advantage of all the opportunities that come with Amazon Influencer marketing!

With millions of sellers and buyers worldwide flocking to the online marketplace every day, several Amazon brand owners may fear they’ll fade into obscurity amidst the cutthroat competition. Luckily, the e-commerce giant launched a tool to give sellers a fair fight—Amazon Brand Analytics.

As a brand owner, staying ahead of the competition is key to: 

• developing better strategies for your company, 
• making essential business decisions, 
• and ultimately improving your brand performance. 

Brand Analytics can help you with that!

Let’s discover the benefits of Brand Analytics for one’s business, its key components and limitations, and possible future trends and features to stay ahead of the curve. 

What is Amazon Brand Analytics?

Brand Analytics is a feature that gives valuable insights into consumer behavior. It offers countless reports to help sellers refine marketing and advertising strategies and improve brand visibility on Amazon.

With these reports, sellers can make data-driven decisions to 

• boost their sales and conversions, 
• instill brand loyalty in their customers, 
• and help them keep up with unexpected changes and trends in the e-commerce industry.

To be specific, here are a few areas where Brand Analytics can benefit your brand and business:

Consumer Behavior	Sellers can observe and understand customer preferences and purchasing patterns better, allowing them to optimize strategies and improve overall customer experience.
Keyword Insights	Sellers can also do keyword research to identify high-performing keywords that improve product visibility and search ranking on Amazon.
Inventory Management	Insights from Amazon Brand Analytics reports can aid in forecasting customer demands and preventing inventory issues.
Competitor Analysis	The tool lets sellers analyze how their competitors fare in the marketplace, how they price their products, and more. These data help sellers find their competitive edge and stand out.
Product Development	In line with identifying strengths and weaknesses, Brand Analytics can prompt you to enhance your current products or develop new ones based on customer demands.
Market Opportunities	Brand Analytics may also give way for sellers to tap uncharted markets and niches, allowing their businesses to flourish and expand beyond their current reach.

What Key Features Does Brand Analytics Offer?

Brand Analytics can give your brand and business all the benefits mentioned above through several analytics reports, metrics, and tools to track and analyze crucial data. These Brand Analytics tools include:

• Amazon Search Terms Report
• Market Basket Analysis Report
• Item Comparison and Alternate Purchase Report
• Repeat Purchase Behavior Report
• Demographics Report

All of these reports are easily accessible through the Brand Analytics dashboard. Let’s dive deeper into each analytics tool to understand how they can turn your business into a brand brimming with success.

Search Terms Report

The Search Terms report allows sellers to discover popular search terms most Amazon customers use when searching for products. Likewise, sellers will get Search Frequency Rank insights that display the rankings of each search term. 

With the Search Terms report data, sellers can identify which search terms have high-converting keywords and use this information to optimize product listings and refine ad targeting and advertising campaigns.

You can locate this report by heading to the Brand Analytics dashboard, clicking Consumer Behavior Dashboards, and selecting “Amazon Search Terms” under the category.

Market Basket Analysis

One of the most common consumer behaviors is placing several products in their basket and checking them out in one go. With Market Basket Analysis reports, sellers can identify items frequently bought together. 

Subsequently, they can use this data to find cross-selling opportunities and offer product bundles to their customers, effectively increasing order sizes and boosting sales.

You can access this Brand Analytics report by selecting “Market Basket Analysis” under the Consumer Behavior Dashboards menu.

Item Comparison Report

As mentioned, one of the ways Brand Analytics can aid in an Amazon seller’s journey is through competitor analysis. With Item Comparison reports, sellers can monitor how often their products are compared to the competitors' products by showing them what types of items their customers click on after viewing their products.

With these report insights, you can identify and further enhance your products' points for improvement. Click the “Item Comparison and Alternate Purchase Behavior” option from the Consumer Behaviors Dashboard to view this report.

Alternate Purchase Behavior Report

If the Item Comparison report shows sellers what items customers visit after viewing their products, the Alternate Purchase Behavior report presents which items customers actually bought on the same day. 

Besides presenting crucial information such as the titles of purchased products and their ASINs, Amazon will also show users what other item combinations and bundles were purchased along with the product in question. You can check this report by selecting “Item Comparison and Alternate Purchase Behavior” from the Consumer Behaviors Dashboard.

Repeat Purchase Behavior Reports

Moving away from all the competition talk, let’s talk about what items on your product list are frequently purchased. By determining which items sell like hotcakes with the Repeat Purchase Behavior report, sellers can identify customer preferences and adjust their inventory accordingly. 

The report can show sellers which products need more restocking and which ones they can scale back to avoid overstocking. You can access this report by clicking “Repeat Purchase Behavior” from the Consumer Behaviors Dashboard.

Demographics

Most importantly, Amazon provides extensive demographic reports to their sellers, allowing them to understand the age, gender, and household income of their customers for better targeting and personalized marketing efforts.

Select the “Demographics” option under the Consumer Behaviors Dashboard to view your customer demographics.

Who Can Use Amazon Brand Analytics?

Knowing what the Amazon Brand Analytics tool can provide and do for your business won’t be enough. Of course, you must also learn how to use the add-on feature. It’s worth noting that Brand Analytics can only be used by brands that are officially registered under Amazon Brand Registry.

Below is a checklist of requirements and features to use the Brand Analytics add-on feature.

Limitations of Brand Analytics

With the endless benefits Brand Analytics can bring, it’s difficult to see where the tool can lack. However, as with everything else, Brand Analytics has its own limitations, which include:

• Limited to Amazon: This drawback is a given. However, it doesn’t take away the fact that sellers can benefit more if they can also see consumer behavior data on other platforms, as these can impact your decisions for your brand as a whole.
• Incomplete or Delayed Data: Analytics provided by Amazon can sometimes be delayed or incomplete. Regularly monitor your data to ensure you're working with accurate information and to avoid any lapses.
• Exclusive for Registered Brands: Only registered brands can access Amazon Brand Analytics, creating barriers and preventing smaller businesses and newer brands without an established presence on Amazon to use the tool.

Source: Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko from Pexels.com

Beyond Brand Analytics: Possible Future Trends & Features

Still, these limitations shouldn’t dampen your enthusiasm to use Brand Analytics for your Amazon journey. After all, with how fast technology and the internet have evolved in recent years, we wouldn’t be surprised if Amazon began adapting these features.

To end on a more positive note, we have listed a couple of trends and features that we predict will soon worm their way into Brand Analytics’ system.

Enhanced Predictive Analysis

As technology evolves, Amazon may incorporate more sophisticated predictive analytics capabilities into Brand Analytics, which may include forecasting demand, sales trends, customer behavior, and the potential success of new products with greater accuracy, enabling sellers to adjust their strategies proactively.

With better predictive modeling, you could make more informed decisions on product offerings, pricing, and marketing strategies to stay on top of your game.

Voice Search Optimization

With the rise of voice-activated devices and smart assistants, optimizing product listings for voice search could become a significant trend. Brand Analytics might offer tools insights into voice search queries and user behavior and tools targeting voice search optimization.

This possible feature could help your brand better understand and capitalize on voice search trends, ensuring your products are easily discoverable for customers using voice-activated devices like Amazon Echo.

Global Market Insights

With Amazon's global reach, the e-commerce giant may provide more extensive global market analysis, including data on customer preferences, competitive landscapes, and market trends in different countries.

A thorough analysis of global market trends may allow sellers to tailor their strategies and products to different regions and cultures for international success.

Augmented Reality (AR) Insights

In recent years, Amazon has slowly started adopting augmented reality (AR) in its platform to improve its customers’ online shopping experiences. For this reason, it won’t come as a surprise if Brand Analytics begins providing insights relating to AR shopping.

AR insights may inform sellers about customer interactions with products in an augmented reality environment, helping them optimize product listings and AR experiences to boost customer engagement and sales.

Maximize the Power of Brand Analytics

Brand Analytics is a valuable resource for sellers to better understand their target audience and make informed decisions to grow their brand and business. While the tool has drawbacks, the number of possible upcoming features we’ve listed shows that the future is bright for users of this tool. 

Data analysis is challenging, but with the right tools and people to guide you, you can harness its potential to propel your brand into success. Consider working with Amazon experts from Seller Interactive.

Let our experts guide you through your Amazon journey by contacting us now!

If you're an eCommerce newbie, the real battle between business models starts with Shopify vs. Amazon FBA. This decision shapes the outset of your eCommerce business. It is as important as choosing a reliable business partner. 

In this blog post, we will break down the strengths and weaknesses of Shopify and Amazon FBA. We aim to help you make a smart decision for your eCommerce venture. 

Understanding Shopify

Shopify is an eCommerce platform that allows you to manage and personalize your online storefront to sell online. It provides entrepreneurs like yourself with templates, payment options, and other eCommerce tools to establish and operate your own online store. This user-friendly online store builder simplifies online selling, sales tracking, and inventory management.

Benefits of Using Shopify

Now that you're familiar with what Shopify is, let's look at the benefits of using this specialized eCommerce platform to scale your online business:

1. Easy Shopify Store Setup

One of the strong areas of Shopify is its intuitive interface and user-friendly web tools that can be downloaded directly from the Shopify app store. Shopify users can easily launch their own eCommerce store without going through complicated processes, so they can quickly start selling. 

2. Customizable Themes

Shopify provides a variety of customized and mobile-responsive templates fit for different industries. With the option to choose from free or paid themes, you can easily create a visually appealing and unique store representing your brand.

3. Excellent Customer Support

Shopify is known for its exceptional customer support. They provide 24/7 customer care via phone, email, or live chat. Shopify also has a community where users can interact with one another and help each other with their questions and concerns. 

4. Low Transaction Charges

Compared to other eCommerce platforms, Shopify's transaction fees are generally cheaper.  Based on your Shopify store's plan, you'll only pay a 0.5%—2% transaction fee. You'll also have zero transaction fees with Shopify Payments, the platform's built-in payment gateway. This can help you save on costs and maintain a higher profit margin for your online store. 

Drawbacks of Using Shopify

You now know the benefits that make Shopify worth a try. Now, let’s explore the limitations of using it. 

1. Higher Monthly Fees

While Shopify provides a range of features and ease of use, it comes with higher monthly fees than other platforms like Amazon. These costs can pile up and affect profitability, especially for startups or small businesses.

Take a look at Shopify’s subscription plans and how much they cost: 

Subscription Plan	Price (per month)
Basic Shopify	$39
Shopify	$105
Advanced Shopify	$399

2. Limited Free Themes

Another disadvantage of using Shopify is the limited number of free themes. Although hundreds of templates and designs exist, most high-quality, professional-looking themes require payment. 

This can be frustrating for users looking for budget-friendly yet visually appealing design options for their online store.

3. Challenging Platform Exit

Leaving Shopify is challenging if you want to switch to another eCommerce platform. You can't seamlessly transfer your Shopify store except for reports. Think carefully about long-term commitment before signing up and creating your own Shopify store.

Amazon FBA Explained

Now that you know the benefits and drawbacks of using Shopify, let's explore the other option: Amazon FBA. It refers to the Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) program, where sellers can keep their goods within Amazon's fulfillment centers.

When customers order products, Amazon takes care of the fulfillment processes on behalf of the sellers. This lets sellers focus on sourcing new products and other areas of building a successful business.

Here’s how Amazon FBA works: 

Benefits of Amazon FBA

Using Amazon FBA comes with several benefits. But are these benefits better than what Shopify offers? Check them out below: 

1. Shipping Discounts

When you sign up for Amazon FBA, you can benefit from the program’s shipping discounts. Your goods become qualified for free shipping and Amazon Prime’s Free Two-Day Shipping. Through Amazon FBA, you can save 32% of your usual shipping costs from major shipping companies. 

2. Return Management

Handling returns can be a hassle for many businesses, but Amazon FBA takes care of return management in your stead. The platform directs customers to an online returns center if customers return a product. This allows you to concentrate on other parts of your business operations.

3. Customer Support

Amazon FBA offers 24/7 customer support, saving you time and money for hiring a separate customer service team. FBA Support handles inquiries, issues, and complaints for orders fulfilled through their service. 

Amazon FBA also doesn’t charge extra fees for their customer service, except for the Returns Processing Fee for certain product categories. 

4. Access to Specialized Services

Aside from Amazon handling the storage, packing, and shipping of orders for you, you also gain access to various specialized fulfillment services. For example, FBA Export allows you to sell easily to more than 100 countries. 

Other specialized fulfillment services include Amazon Global Logistics, Multi-Channel Fulfillment, and more. Note that you won't need additional capital or workforce funds to use these services. 

Drawbacks of Amazon FBA

While Amazon FBA offers great benefits, it's not perfect. Like other business models, Amazon FBA has some downsides: 

1. FBA Fees

One of the primary issues for Amazon sellers is the high cost of selling fees. Amazon charges storage and fulfillment fees, your chosen selling plan, referral fees, optional services, and more. FBA fees can quickly build up depending on the product's weight, size, and time it remains in storage.

2. Requires Regular Inventory Management

Another challenge you may face with Amazon FBA is the need for regular inventory management. In the FBA system, you're responsible for ensuring your products are updated in Amazon's warehouses. 

Despite Amazon lifting the burden of fulfillment off your shoulders, you must still be proactive in maintaining your inventory levels. Failure can result in stockouts, leading to missing out on sales opportunities.

Making the Decision: Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Shopify vs. Amazon FBA

Now that you have familiarized yourself with Shopify and Amazon, let’s explore the factors you must consider when choosing between the two. While this is not an exhaustive list, here are some of the top factors you must consider in your decision-making process:

1. Order Fulfillment

With Amazon FBA, the platform takes care of order fulfillment for sellers. This process benefits beginners without the logistics expertise to manage their fulfillment. It also suits busy entrepreneurs who don’t have time to handle fulfillment processes. 

On the other hand, Shopify allows you to manage your inventory and order fulfillment or use a third-party service. This offers flexibility in fulfilling orders and managing inventory, which might suit more seasoned sellers. 

2. Fees

Amazon charges various fees, including a referral fee per item sold, fulfillment fees for storage and shipping, and a monthly subscription fee depending on your chosen selling plan.

Below are the prices of selling plans on Amazon: 

Selling Plan	Pricing
Individual	$0.99/item sold
Professional	$39.99/month

When it comes to subscription fees, Amazon is cheaper than Shopify. However, with other selling fees involved, Shopify seems to be a more affordable option for sellers. Shopify doesn’t charge referral fees, storage, and other fees that selling on Amazon incurs. 

3. Potential Profit

When evaluating potential profitability, consider the level of competition in your niche and the fees associated with each platform. Amazon offers a much larger customer base, but you may face increased competition with other 9.7 million sellers. This can still be a good thing as it’s a sign that there’s a huge potential for greater profits.

With Shopify, you might have lower fees and lower competition with more than 4 million sellers. However, you must pay for marketing to attract customers, which could cut your profit margins. 

4. Marketing Options

Amazon’s options for branding, customization, and having a unique store design are limited within the Amazon marketplace. However, the platform offers various advertising tools, such as Sponsored Display Ads, to help promote your products. You may also enhance your product listing using A+ Content. 

Meanwhile, Shopify allows for more customization, design, and app integrations for establishing a unique and personalized shopping experience for buyers. However, some of the best apps on the Shopify app store aren’t free; you must pay to use them.  

Which is Better: Amazon or Shopify?

Amazon excels in scaling a business. The platform provides comprehensive tools and programs to help sellers. But if you’re looking for more brand control and customization, Shopify offers better opportunities. 

Get Started With Amazon FBA, and Let Seller Interactive Lead You Through the Entire Process!

Depending on your business goals, one platform may outdo another. But if you’re seeking to maximize your potential in the eCommerce industry, Amazon FBA is the way to go. That said, selling on Amazon requires strict and complex processes, such as complying with its guidelines. 

If you’re ready to scale your business but need expert guidance on selling on Amazon, Seller Interactive is here to help. We offer comprehensive account management services, from setting up your Amazon Seller Central account to prep and logistics. 
Book a call with us today and take the next step to improve your eCommerce business!

With the dozens of ecommerce successes seen over the years, it’s high time to embark on your journey as a digital entrepreneur and become an Amazon seller. One of the first things to do is source products from wholesale marketplaces like Alibaba. Then, you’ll need to figure out how to sell on Amazon from Alibaba, and we’ve got you covered!

What exactly can Alibaba bring to the table regarding your Amazon seller experience? Let’s discover how the Chinese platform can help Amazon sellers create a lucrative ecommerce business and reach success. 

Understanding Alibaba and Amazon

While it isn’t as frequently mentioned as Amazon, Alibaba is still regarded as one of the biggest ecommerce companies in the world. It falls just slightly behind Amazon in terms of market value in 2023.

Source: Statista.com

To those unfamiliar, Alibaba and Amazon may appear synonymous in how they work, considering they both belong to and fall under the ecommerce umbrella. However, they’re vastly different in many ways. 

For one, they focus on and operate with different business models. Amazon focuses on B2C (business-to-consumer) and C2C (consumer-to-consumer) operations, whereas Alibaba primarily operates with the B2B (business-to-business) model.

In short, Amazon is a retailer selling products and services directly to consumers, while Alibaba acts as an intermediary between the supplier and the seller. 

Naturally, their varying focuses mean they provide different services. Amazon offers sellers and buyers worldwide a platform to connect and complete ecommerce transactions. On the other hand, Alibaba offers product-sourcing services for aspiring sellers.

Rather than seeing these platforms as competitors and engaging in one over the other, many digital entrepreneurs see an opportunity in these differences. They choose to use both for their ecommerce journey. How? 

You can easily browse the vast catalog of items, negotiate with suppliers, and place bulk orders for your inventory on Alibaba. While most of the suppliers on the platform may be Chinese manufacturers, Alibaba still offers an extensive network of wholesalers from various countries in Asia, Europe, the Middle East, the Americas, and Africa. Meanwhile, you can create product listings through Amazon and market your products to a massive customer base.

Alibaba	Amazon
B2B business model Offers product-sourcing services for sellers; connects suppliers to sellers Features a vast collection of suppliers, manufacturers, and products worldwide	B2C and C2C business models Offers a platform to connect sellers and consumers Offers various fulfillment methods for sellers

By using Alibaba as a sourcing platform, Amazon sellers can benefit from the convenience of sourcing their products from reliable and legitimate wholesalers. Additionally, the vast product selection on Alibaba allows sellers to explore a wide range of products and find the best fit for their target market.

How To Sell on Amazon From Alibaba

After understanding the basics of the two tech giants, it’s time to learn how sellers can maximize the potential of Alibaba and Amazon and their services to ensure a long-lasting and profitable ecommerce presence. 

Conducting Research and Analysis

The first step in your Alibaba-Amazon journey is product selection. Choosing a suitable product line for your target audience will make or break your career as an ecommerce entrepreneur and determine the entire course of your business endeavor. 

For these reasons, before selecting any products, conducting sufficient product research and engaging in thorough competitive analysis is crucial and necessary.

For simple product research, browse through Amazon’s Best Seller page to get a quick look at what the ecommerce giant’s audience base is most interested in and see if any products fit your brand’s niche. Ensure that the items you choose have high demand with low competition.

You can also head to Alibaba’s Best Seller page and browse through popular products on the platform to know what your competitors are possibly offering and what trends are gaining traction in ecommerce.

It’s best to analyze how your direct competitors interact with their consumers through their reviews and ratings and how they price and market their products.

Choosing the Ideal Alibaba Suppliers

Once you’ve decided on which products to sell, it’s time to select potential suppliers and wholesalers from Alibaba. When choosing a supplier, ensuring they are reliable, legitimate, and meet your requirements is key to avoiding any future road bumps.

The Chinese platform encourages buyers to partner with two types of manufacturers on their platform: verified and gold suppliers. 

Verified suppliers have a badge on their profile that lets buyers know they’ve gone through and passed Alibaba’s unbiased verification process. Verified suppliers are more likely to maintain higher standards and deliver top-quality products.

Gold suppliers are premium members that have similarly gone through Alibaba’s authentication process. Being a gold supplier indicates that you’ve been on the platform for an extended period and are dedicated to your business.

Sample Ordering & Product Quality Control Checking

Before buying your products in bulk from your trusted Alibaba suppliers, it’s still crucial that you check if the products are of the highest quality, and you can do so by ordering samples. 

With this practice, you can request a product sample from multiple suppliers and conduct the necessary quality control checks to ensure that the product meets your standards and specifications before making the final purchase.

Negotiation & Order Placement

You can also negotiate with your suppliers regarding the final price and other terms (like Minimum Order Quantity or MOQ) to secure competitive rates and favorable conditions for your bulk orders. 

In line with negotiating with your manufacturer for the final price, knowing how to pay Alibaba suppliers is best. Once you’re satisfied with the terms you and your supplier have set, you can pay your chosen suppliers through the following methods: 

• Bank transfer 
• PayPal
• Alibaba Secure Payment Service
• Alibaba Trade Assurance

Shipping & Selling on Amazon

 Amazon offers various fulfillment methods for their sellers, but the most efficient selling method to use in your Alibaba-Amazon journey is the Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) program.

With Amazon FBA, sellers won’t have to worry about storage, shipment, logistics, and customer service because Amazon handles them all on your behalf, allowing you to focus on other more essential business matters.

With Alibaba in the mix, Amazon FBA sellers can simply outsource their products from the Chinese platform, send them directly to FBA warehouses, and Amazon will take care of the rest.

When managing your inventory and considering the logistics of shipping from Alibaba to Amazon, it's essential to accurately calculate estimated express shipping costs and other shipment expenses.

Here are some factors to consider:

• Product weight and dimensions: International shipping costs may vary depending on the size and weight of your bulk order.
• Shipping method: You can choose various shipping methods like sea or air freight and express courier shipping services like DHL.
• Import duties and taxes: International shipments may include import duties or taxes, so learning about these fees will help you calculate shipping costs accurately.
• Amazon FBA fees: Amazon charges fees for storage and shipment, depending on the size and weight of products and the time of year. 

Source: Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels.com

Are You Allowed To Sell Alibaba Products on Amazon?

Yes, you are. However, because of buyers' common concerns with the Chinese platform, most people believe otherwise, thinking they’ll experience grave consequences for their brand and overall reputation as an online entrepreneur.

Learning how to navigate through Alibaba properly is key. To combat these worries and debunk this misconception, we’ll discuss Amazon’s product sourcing policies, the primary issues that surround Alibaba, and how sellers can avoid these risks.

Common Challenges of Alibaba

One of the biggest issues that Alibaba faces is the continuous propagation of counterfeiting. Countless counterfeits of branded products have long plagued the platform, leading the United States government to place Alibaba in the official US Counterfeit and Piracy list in 2022. 

Fortunately, Alibaba has been doing its best to rid the marketplace of these fake products by taking down malicious accounts one after another with the help of the Alibaba Anti-Counterfeiting Alliance.

Some buyers are also wary of encountering fraudulent sellers and scammers on the marketplace. As mentioned, Alibaba urges customers to check for Verified Supplier or Gold Supplier badges on the seller’s profile before performing any transactions.

Amazon Policies

As an Amazon seller, being mindful of Amazon’s product policies is crucial to avoid any platform violations and account suspensions. The following are some policies every Amazon seller must be aware of.

It’s best to read the marketplace’s list of restricted and prohibited products before buying bulk orders from Alibaba. Going through Amazon’s Product Safety and Compliance policy is also imperative to learn what safety standards and requirements your product must meet. 

Additionally, Amazon has an anti-counterfeiting policy that aims to battle rampant counterfeit products from entering the marketplace and being used in customer transactions. If your products are proven to be counterfeit, you may lose selling privileges and have your FBA inventory destroyed. 

In line with the consequences of counterfeiting, you may also be involved in intellectual property infringement cases. For this reason, it’s best to read on and learn Amazon’s policies on intellectual property infringement.

Besides learning these policies, you can do the following to avoid violating any of Amazon’s rules.

Final Thoughts

By now, you should have gained valuable insights on how to sell on Amazon using products purchased from Alibaba. Additionally, you should have learned how to avoid any avoidable road bumps during your Alibaba-Amazon journey. Implementing these tips is crucial to develop your online business steadily and smoothly.

Looking for help when it comes to managing your Amazon business? Let Seller Interactive guide you on Amazon and beyond.

Talk to our Amazon experts and discover how to maximize your brand’s potential by booking a call at 1-800-820-3746 today!

Amazon Sponsored Display makes a powerful tool for advertisers like yourself looking to grow their business. With the ever-increasing eCommerce competition, utilizing this strategy is essential to win the hearts of your potential customers. 

For an already established business, this growth strategy provides an opportunity to reach a broader audience and improve sales performance. By uncovering the key steps and strategies, you will be equipped with the knowledge to maximize the potential of Amazon SD and drive greater growth for your business.

So keep reading as we delve into Amazon SD, encompassing its benefits, the step-by-step setup process, and optimization techniques. 

What is a Sponsored Display on Amazon?

A Sponsored Display on Amazon is a form of advertising that allows you to promote products to relevant audiences on and off the platform.

Here’s an example of a Sponsored Display ad within Amazon:

Meanwhile, here’s one from outside Amazon, which is on Twitch:

The Benefits of Amazon Sponsored Display Ads

Utilizing Sponsored Display comes with numerous benefits. If you haven’t prioritized this ad type and are getting busy with other campaigns, these benefits will encourage you to spotlight Sponsored Display now. 

Brand and Product Awareness

Sponsored Display ads can significantly increase your brand and product awareness. By targeting relevant product categories on Amazon and refining targeting attributes such as category, brand, price, and Prime eligibility, you can maximize your reach to new audiences and improve product discovery.

Customer Acquisition

Utilizing Amazon's first-party shopping signals will allow you to reach potential customers who have viewed your detail page and new audiences who have viewed similar products or categories on Amazon. This can help drive consideration and awareness for your brand, making it more likely for these individuals to become loyal customers.

Ad Flexibility and Control

Before you can fully utilize the benefits of Sponsored Display ads, it's essential to register your brand with Amazon Brand Registry. This program helps protect your brand by providing greater control over your product listings and ensuring accurate representation. It verifies your brand ownership and provides access to additional Amazon features like customizable detail pages and enhanced advertising options.

Brand registered sellers can set their daily budget, choose their products, select targeting tactics such as contextual targeting or audiences, and specify their bids. Such an approach enables tailoring your advertising efforts, guaranteeing optimal advertising performance.

Boost Your Sales and Conversion Rates

By positioning your ads on and off Amazon, you can reach relevant audiences at every stage of their shopping journey. Whether they are browsing similar products or viewing your product detail page, Sponsored Display ads allow you to influence potential customers and boost conversions.

How Does Amazon SD Differ from DSP, Sponsored Brands, and Sponsored Products?

Amazon Sponsored Display, Sponsored Products, Sponsored Brands, and DSP are all advertising formats offered by Amazon, but they have differences. 

Sponsored Display

Sponsored Display enables advertisers to target audiences within and beyond Amazon, such as on Amazon-owned sites, third-party websites, apps, and devices.

Sponsored Products

These are the ads customers see on Amazon product detail pages and search results. They are typically displayed with a "Sponsored" tag and help promote individual product listings.

Sponsored Brands

Meanwhile, the ads that show up on top of the search results page are Sponsored Brands. These ads feature a customized headline, logo, and a selection of products. They help drive brand awareness and promote a range of products under a brand's umbrella.

DSP (Demand Side Platform)

DSP offers off-Amazon programmatic advertising, including advanced targeting options, audience-based buying, diverse ad formats, and the ability to reach customers on various websites, apps, and streaming services.

How to Create Well-Optimized Amazon Sponsored Display Campaigns

If you are convinced Sponsored Display can help you boost your sales and grow your business even more, take note of these steps when creating Sponsored Display campaigns.

Step #1: Devise your advertising strategy.

Before launching your Sponsored Display campaign, see how it will fit the bigger picture of your business goals. What do you want to accomplish specifically, and how will your ads be created to achieve them? This approach ensures effective utilization and optimal outcomes.

For example, you may want to create Sponsored Display ads hand in hand with other advertising options available on Amazon, like Sponsored Products and Sponsored Brands, for maximum reach.

Step #2: Determine your campaign budget.

Efficiently managing your ad spend is vital for maximizing the ROI. The budget should be based on your overall advertising strategy and the number of products you wish to promote. This ensures that your Sponsored Display ads will not exceed your budget while reaching audiences effectively. 

Step #3: Navigate the Sponsored Display audiences targeting options.

After setting your daily budget, you can choose between contextual targeting of audiences. Use Amazon's shopping signals and prebuilt audience segmentation. This step ensures you tailor your ad strategy based on customers' browsing behavior and past purchase history. Eventually, you increase the likelihood of reaching people interested in your products. 

Step #4: Select products to advertise.

Choosing the right products to advertise is essential in setting up your Sponsored Display campaign. Identify which has the highest potential of attracting your target audience, and make it the face of your brand and store. These products can be your best-selling items, new releases, or products that differentiate your brand.

As your bestsellers gain more popularity, you can also give the spotlight on your other products using a Sponsored Display ad. Since you already have insights into your previous campaigns, you can replicate the best practices and minimize any challenges moving forward.

Step #5: Get creative with your Sponsored Display ad creatives.

Utilizing creative elements in your Amazon SD ads is key to capturing and holding the attention of your target consumers. Sponsored Display offers several options for ad content, including product images, custom brand logos, and video ads creative.

Ads with engaging visuals can promote your products more effectively. Invest in genuine, high-quality images, educational and informative product descriptions, and concise headlines highlighting your offerings' benefits. Take advantage of Amazon's auto-generated ad creatives if you want a quick solution to kickstart your campaign.

Add clear and compelling call-to-action (CTA) buttons that guide potential customers toward the desired action. This could be a purchase, a click-through to your product page, or another desired outcome. 

💡 Remember to add a human touch, as this connection will make your potential customers consider, engage, and remember your brand.

Step #6: Select your ad’s placement.

Amazon SD provides various options for ad placements. By strategically selecting where your ad appears, you can increase the chances of reaching high-intent shoppers and driving sales. Depending on your goal, here are some placement strategies to choose from:

Contextual Targeting

Contextual targeting (formerly product targeting) shows your ads on various points in their online journey, from product detail pages and search results pages to outside the Amazon store. With this feature, Amazon SD does the work of finding opportunities to expand your reach. This includes positioning your ad alongside complementary products or in contexts showcasing features. It also displays your ads when users engage with related content, from the web or a mobile device.

Retargeting with Sponsored Displays

Shoppers who previously viewed or interacted with your products, visited your product pages, or used a search term you rank for may need a little more push to buy. A retargeting ad can help a lot in converting this potential customer. It reminds shoppers of your products, encouraging them to return and purchase. Customize your ad creatives when retargeting using Sponsored Display campaigns by adding your brand logo and product images. Sponsored Display video creative and audio ads can also help you engage shoppers more effectively. And by tracking your campaign metrics, you can optimize your targeting strategy and reach new audiences interested in your products.

Step #7: Split-test your strategies.

There is not one fixed solution for all businesses; you have to develop a unique strategy that will work for your unique needs. Experiment with different ad placements, product images, targeting strategies, and campaign structures to achieve that. This allows you to optimize your results further and guarantee business growth. 

Selecting the appropriate targeting strategy for your Sponsored Display ads is the key to reaching relevant audiences and improving your overall ad performance.

Step #8: Monitor your campaign performance.

Monitoring and analyzing your ad performance is essential to get the most out of your Amazon SD campaigns. Use the Amazon Advertising Console to track ad spend, view campaign metrics, and make data-driven adjustments to your advertising strategy.

Regularly analyze and enhance your bids to ensure they remain competitive. Analyzing your campaign metrics lets you see which aspects of your advertising strategy work effectively and which areas need improvement. Doing so will continually improve your campaigns and ensure a higher ROI

Step #9: Generate routine reports on campaign performance.

Access in-depth reports that provide valuable insights into your SD ad campaigns' performance. Monitoring these reports will help you understand how well they engage shoppers and contribute to your overall marketing strategy. Key metrics to focus on include clicks, impressions, ad spend, sales, click-through rate (CTR), etc.

Compare the performance of your Sponsored Display campaigns against other Amazon ad formats, such as Sponsored Products and Sponsored Brands. Once you know which ad type performs best, you can invest in them more to maximize your return on ad spend. As for the less effective campaigns, you should analyze what was lacking and improve.

By closely monitoring your Amazon SD reports, using the insights to inform your targeting strategy, and regularly refining your ad creatives, you'll be well on your way to harnessing the full potential of Sponsored Display and growing your business on Amazon.

Partner With Seller Interactive for Creating Optimized Sponsored Display Ads

Mastering the art of Amazon Sponsored Display can significantly boost your business growth. It effectively places your products at the forefront, targets the right people at the right time, and both in and out of Amazon. 

By staying informed and adapting your strategies, you can ensure the ongoing success of your campaigns and enjoy the benefits of increased visibility and sales on Amazon.

To achieve the success we are discussing, it would be best to partner with a team well-versed in creating and managing Sponsored Display ads. Seller Interactive is your go-to Amazon team! Our Sponsored Ads Management and DSP Advertising services cover everything you need to succeed.

Book a call with us now if you want to discover more about what we can do!

Managing an Amazon store is no easy feat. From ensuring your brand is protected from malicious counterfeiters and hijackers to keeping a close eye on your FBA inventory—even the most successful seller may need a little bit of support now and then in the form of an Amazon FBA coach or consultant.

In what business areas can these professionals help Amazon FBA sellers, and is there any difference between the two? Moreover, whose service is better: an Amazon coach or a consultant? 

Let’s uncover the strategic expertise of each. They just might be your FBA business’ saving grace.

A Look Into Amazon’s FBA Program

Before we begin the showdown, it’s best to lay out the ground rules and give a brief overview of the Amazon FBA business model. Through this rundown, we can learn the basics of the FBA program and identify specific areas where Amazon sellers may find themselves in a bind.

Amazon FBA sellers let the e-commerce giant handle the entire fulfillment process, from product storage, packaging, shipping, delivery, and customer service. Sellers must simply send their products to Amazon’s FBA warehouses, where their items will be stored, labeled, and packed for shipment.

Because of this sophisticated and organized setup, FBA sellers can focus on more essential business matters and perform more tasks without worrying about the logistics of inventory and warehousing, order fulfillment, and customer service.

This fulfillment method may seem straightforward, but it’s not foolproof—many sellers may still encounter inevitable issues throughout their FBA journey. 

For instance, while Amazon virtually handles every stage in the order fulfillment process, the first step to having a successful FBA business still falls in the hands of the seller: product selection and research. Sellers must find profitable and in-demand products that meet Amazon’s guidelines.

While Amazon offers storage for every business, FBA sellers must also meet certain requirements to maximize their FBA inventory, such as having a specific IPI score. The COVID-19 pandemic also affected FBA inventory, with the e-commerce platform limiting its inventory space to only the essential items.

Other areas of concern include:

• Product pricing
• Product launch
• Listing optimization and management
• Growing Amazon marketplace competition
• Seller account health
• Marketing and advertising

A knowledgeable and dedicated few saw these issues as an opportunity to help other Amazon brand owners reach their goals and achieve FBA success. This led to the emergence of Amazon FBA coaching and consulting in recent years.

With the aid of such professionals, an Amazon FBA seller can rest easy knowing their business and brand are in the hands of experienced experts. 

But how exactly can these Amazon FBA specialists elevate a seller’s business endeavor? Let’s get to it.

What is an Amazon FBA Coach?

Amazon FBA coaches guide sellers through the FBA program by offering hands-on assistance and providing strategies for FBA selling.

These coaches act as your mentors or gurus with extensive experience on Amazon who are highly knowledgeable on the ins and outs, the ups and downs, and everything in between the FBA fulfillment process. FBA coaches can guide you through the complexities and rough patches of the Amazon marketplace.

An Amazon coach will be your trusted partner as you navigate the crowded FBA seller population, ready to address your queries and concerns. In particular, Amazon coaches provide the following services for interested clients:

• Step-by-step guidance on seller account setup
• Assistance with product research
• Provides insights into product sourcing, listing optimization, marketing campaigns, etc.
• Recommends pricing strategies
• Account health management
• Offers one-on-one coaching sessions to educate clients on the best FBA practices

Besides mentoring sessions, enrolling in an FBA coaching program may give clients access to free resources on valuable FBA information, Amazon courses about various selling and optimization strategies, and much more.

Of course, you can’t immediately find the best Amazon FBA coach on your first try. You must consider a few features and factors before hiring an Amazon coach.

Expertise & Specialization in the Field

It may go without saying, but you must look into the coach’s expertise on the field. Specifically, you must consider what areas or stages in the FBA fulfillment process they are most experienced in.

Their expertise must align with your FBA business needs. For instance, if your goal is to scale your business, a coach experienced in inventory management, brand expansion, and strategic marketing would be your best bet. Selecting a coach that matches your needs ensures you receive the specialized guidance required for your unique FBA journey.

Coaching Style

Perhaps another crucial factor that you should look out for is coaching style. Every student learns differently, and no Amazon coach has the same teaching style. While they may be highly knowledgeable of the field, an FBA coach whose coaching style doesn’t match yours may only lead to disaster.

Not only will there be a disconnect in ideas, but your communication and collaboration may also suffer. For this reason, it’s best to carefully assess an FBA coach's mentoring approach and ensure it aligns with your preferred learning style and business needs. This compatibility will foster a productive partnership and maximize the benefits of your coaching experience.

Social Proof & Credibility

Most importantly, look at their track record by reading past clients' testimonials and success stories. Doing so may give you a glimpse into how the FBA mentor teaches and communicates with clients and how effective their services are.

You can determine whether or not the FBA coach in question is a reliable professional. Besides testimonials, research if they have any relevant certifications or affiliations within the Amazon FBA community. 

Remember, a reputable FBA coach will prioritize YOUR success and ensure your business grows to achieve that success.

Source: Photo by cottonbro studio from Pexels.com

What is an Amazon FBA Consultant?

On the other hand, an FBA consultant takes on a more analytical role. Amazon FBA consultants delve into the intricacies of your FBA business, conducting comprehensive assessments to identify opportunities for optimization and growth. 

With a deep understanding of e-commerce dynamics, FBA consultants offer strategic recommendations that suit your unique situation. They analyze market trends, competition, and data-driven insights to formulate strategies to enhance your business's overall performance. 

While they may not provide hands-on training like coaches, their expertise can be transformational for established FBA sellers looking to refine their operations and achieve sustainable success.

FBA consultants may offer the following services to their clients: 

• Consultations on FBA selling
• SEO assessments of product listings for optimization
• Conducting competitor analysis and market research
• Strategizing product launches
• PPC campaign management for optimal visibility
• Guidance on branding
• Analyzing sales data, market trends, and performance metrics
• Assistance with account suspensions

Like FBA coaches, finding the ideal FBA consultant is key to ensuring your business can thrive and grow in the Amazon marketplace. For this reason, you must be wary of a few factors and features when hiring an FBA consultant:

Analytical Capabilities & Up-to-Date Knowledge

Because they focus primarily on analyzing and assessing various data and metrics, your FBA consultant must have top-notch analytical skills and a deep understanding of the Amazon marketplace and algorithm.

Additionally, the consultant must keep up with the latest industry trends and closely follow Amazon’s policy and algorithm changes. These factors significantly impact how well their data analysis will go, ultimately affecting your business’ fate.

Consultation Process

Similar to the coaching styles of FBA coaches, you must also consider the consultation process of your chosen FBA consultant before hiring them. You must understand how they gather information, analyze data, and develop strategies to see if their process is a good fit for your business.

Consultation processes may be a one-on-one meeting, group discussion, or workshop with other people in your company. You may feel more comfortable working with consultants who do regular check-ins on your brand’s progress or ones who do an in-depth analysis of your business.

The consultation process will affect your collaboration with your consultant, so be sure to choose a professional you can comfortably work with. 

Adaptability & Innovation

Most importantly, you must look for a consultant who can easily adapt their strategies as industry trends and market conditions change. Flexibility allows FBA consultants to display more innovative ways of thinking to tackle new challenges, enabling them to develop the most optimal solutions for your business.

This approach can propel your FBA business towards sustained growth and continued success in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape.

Which Professional Works Best For Your Amazon Business?

Reading through their roles and skill sets, Amazon FBA coaches and consultants are two sides of the same coin. To keep yourself from confusing the two, remember that FBA coaches are more hands-on, while consultants go the analytical route. 

While we’ve listed the basics of FBA coaching and consulting, many sellers may still have a burning question unanswered: which professional should you hire?

The decision largely depends on the specific needs and goals of your Amazon FBA business. Would you prefer hands-on assistance, personalized mentorship, and step-by-step guidance as you traverse the world of Amazon FBA? An FBA coach may be your ideal choice.

Are you seeking more comprehensive analysis and data-driven strategies for your business? Consider working with an experienced Amazon FBA consultant from Seller Interactive!

Book a consultation and talk to an Amazon expert at 1-800-820-3746 now so we can help your FBA business reach new heights!

All sellers have encountered a stale listing. It happens when one or several products they've listed on Amazon remain untouched for weeks to months, stuck with only a few sales. It can be as painful as scrolling down a computer screen, trying to find the SEO tools for Amazon that will magically turn your listings into bestsellers.

But we're businesspeople. There's no room for overnight results. We understand that the rational approach involves increasing product visibility, in which search engine optimization (SEO) plays a major role. If we keep scrolling with the knowledge of Amazon SEO in mind, we'll eventually discover the solution.

Let Seller Interactive save you some time and provide you with seven of the best Amazon SEO tools. These tools can help your listing skyrocket to the top page when used to its full potential.

Keyword.io

First on the list of Amazon SEO tools is Keyword.io, suitable for both new and seasoned sellers. This free keyword research tool acts as a search engine with an autocomplete feature. It pulls data from Amazon and gives you auto-suggested long-tail keywords. 

It also lets you configure the country, language, and Amazon search channels to narrow your search. When the search results pull up, you'll search volume data, trend, average CPC, and competition for every keyword line item. 

Keyword.io is an excellent tool if you're looking to expand your listing's keywords efficiently. It can also be used as a support tool while doing product research using the traditional Amazon search engine.

Merchant Words

Look around for an easy-to-use Amazon keyword tool, and Merchant Words will come up. It's an intuitive product search and keyword optimization tool for both absolute beginners and experienced sellers.

Merchant Words' user interface makes it a breeze for the clueless to scope around the tool and become a converted avid user. They can view the organic performance of keywords and terms frequently used in the Amazon marketplace in just a few clicks. In just a few minutes, they can identify what competitors use and what keywords and niches they can enter to gain profit.

Jungle Scout

Another formidable Amazon SEO tool is Jungle Scout. Like its close rival, Helium10, this tool can do many things besides keyword research functions.

Keyword Scout is the name of the tool's feature that allows sellers to do thorough keyword research. What's incredible about the tool is it brings quality keywords to every search result. You will have plenty of selection from the litter that will improve your SEO strategy and your listing's organic ranking.

Apart from SEO, it also helps your PPC efforts. Each keyword shows search volume, PPC bid costs, trend graph, and ease of ranking. Overall, the Keyword Scout from Jungle Scout is one tool you should consider as part of your arsenal to reach your goals.

Helium10

Helium10 is one of the best tools that do more than keyword research. It can also do 

• product research, 
• performance analytics, and 
• listing optimization. 

Most experienced and successful Amazon sellers swear to the power of this Amazon SEO tool. During our interview with Karyn Thomas, Brand Evangelist at Helium 10, she touches on the importance of utilizing SEO tools and provides insight into the journey of Helium 10:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhuH86Mejos

Magnet, its SEO keyword tool for Amazon, has access to a vast database of market-specific keywords. It gives you plenty of results to help you better select a precise keyword for an existing product listing.

Magnet's keyword data can also help you uncover untapped opportunities for new product ideas or rank on a viable keyword of your choice. If you're looking to carve out a new opportunity for traffic and ramp up your organic search engine optimization efforts, Helium10 is your go-to tool.

AMZScout

What gives this tool the edge over the rest is that it's customer-centric. AMZScout is an Amazon SEO tool that gives sellers keyword data about what customers are searching for. This is an excellent feature if you're looking to scout new products to sell in the largest marketplace.

Its keyword explorer tool gives sellers data on the number of customers using a keyword, including other relevant keywords. They can use this information to correctly associate keywords to a particular listing to ensure it's well-optimized.

Like some of the dominant Amazon keyword research tools, AMZScout also has a reverse ASIN search feature. It lets you see the organic rank page, position, and possible sales for page one data. You'll see what kind of keywords your competitors are using.

Seller App

One tool that rivals the easiness of Merchant Words is the Seller App. Its user interface is straightforward, clean, and navigable. This SEO tool for Amazon will let sellers see relevancy score, cost per click rate, trend data, and search volume fast and with just a few keystrokes and clicks.

Adaptability is another advantage of this tool. Sellers can access it using their smartphones, which is a big help when they're always on the go. They can connect to the internet and do their business anywhere. Seller App also supports other ecommerce marketplaces besides Amazon, making it a powerful tool for those who sell to multiple markets.

If you're looking for a tool that's easy to use and caters to Amazon and other marketplaces, this is for you. It may be less comprehensive than other Amazon-specific tools, but it makes up for it with a broad selection.

Sellzone

Most sellers are familiar with SEMrush, the popular SEO tool used to rank on Google. The same people behind the creation of SEMrush launched an Amazon-specific keyword research tool—Sellzone.

Just imagine a marketplace keyword research tool that can give you access to a database of 200 million or more keywords, with an option to select between broad, phrase, and exact match types. The possibilities are astounding!

Sellzone's Amazon Keyword Wizard tool is where you get data for search term volumes and the number of competitors you have on those keywords. But it also has other functions—product research, listing quality check, and a PPC optimizer, among other things.

As for its keyword research, this tool would do wonders if you prefer something simple and want more keywords added to your listings and fill it with backend keywords.

Seller Interactive’s Team of Experts is Your Best Amazon SEO Tool. 

The SEO tools we recommended above can help any Amazon seller improve their SEO performance. With enough time and effort, you can discover how to use the tools to your advantage effectively.

But if you still struggle to skyrocket your SEO game, your ultimate Amazon SEO tool would be a team of experts from Seller Interactive. Our Amazon specialists know the workarounds of SEO and the retail giant. Their knowledge and experience in using various utilities can significantly improve your account performance and, most importantly, grow your business. If you're curious about this team and how they can help achieve your goals, book a call today.